How does Exodus 29:41 connect to Jesus' ultimate sacrifice in the New Testament? Setting the Scene in Exodus 29:41 “ At twilight you are to present the second one, along with the same grain offering and drink offering as in the morning. It is a pleasing aroma, an offering made by fire to the LORD.” (Exodus 29:41) Daily Offerings and Divine Fellowship • The verse describes the evening half of Israel’s “continual burnt offering”—two lambs every day, morning and twilight (Exodus 29:38–42). • These lambs kept covenant fellowship fresh, assuring the people of constant acceptance before God. • The stated result: “a pleasing aroma” (v. 41), language the rest of Scripture uses for sacrifices that satisfy God’s holiness (Genesis 8:21; Leviticus 1:9). Foreshadowing the Lamb of God • A spotless lamb, offered twice daily, quietly preached substitution and innocence (cf. Exodus 12:5; Leviticus 22:19). • The twilight sacrifice pointed ahead to another lamb who would die as daylight faded (Matthew 27:45–50). • The phrase “pleasing aroma” resurfaces in Ephesians 5:2—“Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Jesus as the Fulfillment • John 1:29 identifies Jesus as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” • Hebrews 10:11-14 contrasts priests who “stand daily” with Christ who offered “one sacrifice for sins for all time” and then “sat down.” • Whereas Exodus 29:41 called for a lamb each evening, Jesus’ once-for-all death satisfied God perpetually (Hebrews 9:24-26). • The “drink offering” (wine) poured out beside the lamb prefigures His blood poured out for many (Luke 22:20). • Timing matters: Jesus’ final cry and death occurred about the ninth hour—around the time priests would have been preparing the evening lamb (Mark 15:34-37). Key Parallels • Continual access (daily lambs) → permanent access (Hebrews 4:14-16). • Pleasing aroma by fire → complete satisfaction in Christ (Romans 3:25-26). • Repetition required → single consummate act (1 Peter 3:18). • Earthly altar → heavenly throne (Hebrews 8:1-2). Living in the Light of the Ultimate Sacrifice • Confidence: The door into God’s presence stands open, no sacrifice pending (Hebrews 10:19-22). • Gratitude: Lives now become “living sacrifices” (Romans 12:1) that echo the aroma of Christ. • Continuity: Morning-and-evening rhythms of worship still matter, not to earn favor but to enjoy the fellowship His finished work secured. |
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